Curtain Size Calculator — Get It Right First Time
Enter your window dimensions and rod position. Get the exact curtain width, drop, and number of panels you need — for every heading type and hanging style. No more guessing, no more returns.
Curtain Drop Lengths — Which One Is Right?
The drop of your curtains changes the entire feel of a room. Here's what each length looks like, when it works, and when to avoid it.
Curtain Heading Types — Complete Guide
Fullness multiplier, look, and best use for every heading type
| Heading Type | Fullness | Look & Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eyelet / Grommet Most Popular | 1.5× | Clean, modern, uniform folds | Contemporary & Scandinavian rooms |
| Pencil Pleat Classic | 2.5× | Traditional gathered look, very full | Formal rooms, traditional style |
| Pinch Pleat | 2× | Structured, elegant pleated header | Formal dining rooms, bedrooms |
| Tab Top | 1.5× | Casual loops visible on rod | Relaxed, farmhouse, coastal rooms |
| Rod Pocket | 2× | Fabric ruched directly onto rod | Sheer panels, casual spaces |
| Ripple Fold | 1.8× | Consistent S-curve waves | Modern, minimalist, hotel-style |
Curtain Sizing Mistakes Everyone Makes
Hanging the rod too low
The most common mistake. Rods hung at window frame height make ceilings look lower and windows look smaller. Always mount 6–12 inches above the frame — or all the way to the ceiling for maximum impact.
Not enough width / fullness
Curtains need to be wider than the window to look full when closed. Use the heading's fullness multiplier. Eyelet panels at exactly window width look flat and cheap — they need 1.5× the rod width in total fabric.
Panels that are too short
A curtain that ends at an awkward mid-wall height looks like a mistake. Commit to either sill, below-sill, or full floor length — nothing in between. When in doubt, go longer.
Rod not wide enough
The rod should extend 6–12 inches past the window frame on each side. This lets panels stack off the glass when open, maximising natural light and making the window appear wider.
How to Hang Curtains Properly
The rod height rule
Hang the rod as close to the ceiling as possible — ideally 1–2 inches below the crown moulding, or directly on the ceiling in modern rooms. This single change makes any room feel taller, ceilings higher, and windows grander.
How much rod to extend past the window
Extend the rod 6–12 inches past the window frame on each side. When curtains are open, panels stack on the wall — not on the glass — so every inch of window is uncovered and flooding your room with light.
Sheers vs blackout panels
- Sheers filter light and add softness. Best in living rooms and dining rooms where you want privacy without total darkness.
- Blackout panels are essential in bedrooms, nurseries, and home cinemas. Look for 100% blackout — "blackout-lined" still allows light through seams.
- Double rod setup — one sheer, one blackout on the same window — gives you full control of light at any time of day.
Lining your curtains
Lined curtains hang better, last longer, insulate better, and look more expensive. If you're making custom curtains, always add a lining. For ready-made panels, look for "interlined" or "thermal lined" options — they're worth the extra cost.